Hong Kong finds gold-trading leader in former exchange executive Bryan Chan

The Hong Kong government has appointed Bryan Chan Ping-keung, a former executive at bourse operator Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing (HKEX), as CEO to lead the development and operation of the city’s new central clearing and settlement system for gold.

Chan will head Hong Kong Precious Metals Central Clearing (HKPMCC), a wholly government-owned entity established in January to run the clearing system for precious metals. His appointment would take effect on October 2 for a three-year term, according to a statement released on Monday.

Chan would be expected to deliver efficient and reliable clearing and settlement services for over-the-counter gold transactions, work closely with industry participants and collaborate with the government to build an international-standard gold trading ecosystem, the government said.

Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Christopher Hui Ching-yu, who is also chairman of HKPMCC, expressed confidence in Chan’s leadership.

Hui said that Chan would enhance system operations, collaborate with stakeholders and facilitate global market participation, strengthening Hong Kong’s influence in Asian gold trading.

The initiative aligns with goals highlighted in the city’s first five-year plan and the 2026 policy address to leverage gold for commodity market expansion. The central clearing system is scheduled for launch in the first quarter of next year.

HKPMCC’s board includes representatives from the Shanghai Gold Exchange, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, the Securities and Futures Commission and 11 banks.

Chan served as an administrative officer from 1988 to 2000, when he worked as the principal assistant secretary for financial services, responsible for securities and derivatives market policies, as well as the merger that created HKEX, and its listing.

He joined HKEX in 2000 and was later promoted to managing director and co-head of equities and fixed income currency in the global markets division.

Chan possessed deep knowledge and extensive experience in financial markets, market infrastructure and government operations, alongside outstanding management and leadership capabilities, Hui said.